This blog is intended to capture the thoughts of an emerging edu-blogger committed to creating constructivist learning experiences for students. Please visit The Connected Classroom Wiki for more resources and information

Get ready for the future....

Let’s have a little competition at school and get ready for the future. I will use a laptop and you will use paper and pencil. Are you ready…?

I will access up-to-date information - you have a textbook that is 5 years old.I will immediately know when I misspell a word – you have to wait until it’s graded.I will learn how to care for technology by using it – you will read about it.I will see math problems in 3D – you will do the odd problems.I will create artwork and poetry and share it with the world – you will share yours with the class.I will have 24/7 access – you have the entire class period.I will access the most dynamic information – yours will be printed and photocopied.I will communicate with leaders and experts using email – you will wait for Friday’s speaker.I will select my learning style – you will use the teacher’s favorite learning style.I will collaborate with my peers from around the world – you will collaborate with peers in your classroom.I will take my learning as far as I want – you must wait for the rest of the class.The cost of a laptop per year? - $250The cost of teacher and student training? – ExpensiveThe cost of well educated US citizens and workforce? - Priceless

It is worth noting that this was originally posted on Abilene, Kansas High School Dialogue Buzz website during the spring of 2003. . Given that 96% of students say that school is important for their success, and only 20% say it is meeting their needs and the fastest growing set of computer users today are 5-7 year olds. Given that at the time of this posting, in 2003 4%of US school districts were involved in a 1:1 initiative. By 2011, it is estimated that 24% of districts will be involved in a 1:1 deployment. The question shouldn't be are we ready...it should be are we moving fast enough?